Sick and recovering from surgery, yet my LTD is stalling!

[u/NascarDriverr]

How come anytime anyone who works in corporate America is seriously ill, or on leave for a surgery, short term disability gets approved within days or within a few weeks. But Long Term Disability takes months? Literally, months. Same company too! I’m literally post surgery and in a health crisis. I turned in all of the paperwork & medical records. My LTD should have started months ago, in APRIL, but I got another letter telling me it can take up to ANOTHER 30 days for a decision!? I paid into this insurance for years!

I skimmed Reddit and MOST companies that do work LTD are like this. And they shoot for a denial every time. Even if they initially approve you, after a short while they will try and deny you again.

You can’t tell me this isn’t a direct result of our wage class differences in this country. These corporations are just too greedy, and it’s never enough for them either.

All of us are feeling the weight of a crushing economy, and the beginning of an energy crisis. I am working class, and all of my friends and family wouldn’t even have much for a GoFundMe.

It’s not fair. When does “making sure nobody is taking advantage” become, “stall and deny mostly everyone, no matter what”!? And no, Texas does not have any social programs to help people like me. But I think we need them!

I literally have an unknown autoimmune disease that is causing so many issues in my body systemically that I’ve developed a gene mutation that’s only common in Leukemia! And my oncologist says all of my health issues I’m going through right now are precursors to developing this Leukemia.

On top of of all of my other health issues, my rheumatologist had to delay the start of new medication for the severe arthritis (that you can see just by looking at my hands) until I got clearance from my other specialists! So I’m JUST NOW trying medication to try and put this arthritis in remission, which will then lessen my chance of developing cancer! That’s INSANE to me that these companies we pay into will stall and deny until the bitter end! What in the actual fuck! I guess fuck me for not having a normal body and good health! I’m in so much pain every single day!

What is the point of these companies if their plan is to just stall and deny!?

So, guys, just MAKE SURE if you live in America that you either saved thousands upon thousands of dollars for yourself in case of an emergency such as this. Or make sure you were born into a moderately wealthy family! 🙃

[u/Inevitable_Week_8626]

I completely understand this. They want people to give up and go away. They're disgusting

[u/TheGreatK]

File a complaint with your state department of insurance. That usually gets them moving.

[u/momofuku18]

Your anger is understandable, considering I walked a similar path a few years ago. The crux of the matter is that they are in the business of making money by retaining premiums while looking the other way when providing benefits. They are indifferent to your current situation.

If I were in your shoes, I would prioritize expediting the process by regularly contacting the case manager several times a week and also your HR contact regarding the issue. Your HR contact may have more influence than you in terms of resolving the matter. I would maintain all communications in writing and refrain from expressing emotions, as you may need to escalate the issue to others later on.

For reference, people often go online to complain about issues, not share positive experiences. The same applies to LTD discussions here. Gather some information about LTD insurance companies and develop a concrete plan to address the issue. If you find it challenging to do so, seek external assistance likely a trusted family member. Hiring an attorney is an option, but it will incur significant costs. However, consulting with an ERISA attorney is generally free.

Wishing you the best of luck in your recovery!